Change the default application that opens a file - Windows

Windows keeps a detailed list of the applications used to open specific file types by default. For example, when you click on a .docx file, Windows will automatically open the Microsoft Word application. Occasionally, you might want to change the default application used to open a certain file.

Change the default application in Windows 10

In the Windows File Manager -- or on your desktop -- right-click on the file for which you want to change the default application.

In the resulting pop-up dialog box, select Open with > Choose another app.

In the How do you want to open this file? dialog box:

Click on the application that you'd like to be the new default.

Select the Always use this app to open .zzz files check box.

Click on the OK button.

This should set the default permanently under your user profile.

Example: Change the default application to open .JPG files

In the Windows File Manager -- or on your desktop -- right-click on any .JPG file.

In the resulting pop-up dialog box, select Open with > Choose another app